Museo di Storia Naturale Giacomo Doria

Overview

The Museo Civico di Storia Naturale Giacomo Doria is one of Italy's most important natural history museums, with over 4.5 million specimens across zoology, botany, mineralogy, and palaeontology. Founded in 1867, it occupies a stately building near Piazza Corvetto.

Highlights

• Elephant skeleton: The museum's iconic centrepiece — a complete mounted elephant skeleton in the entrance hall.
• Entomology collection: One of Europe's richest, with over 3 million insect specimens.
• Ligurian biodiversity: Dedicated galleries exploring the natural history of Liguria's unique coastal environment.

History

Founded in 1867 by Marchese Giacomo Doria, a passionate naturalist and explorer. The collection grew through Doria's own expeditions to Borneo, Persia, and Tunisia, and through acquisitions from global collectors. It moved to its current neo-Renaissance building in 1912.

Visitor Tips

• Family-friendly: Interactive elements and the sheer variety of specimens appeal to children.
• Quiet museum: One of Genoa's less crowded cultural attractions.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.